Abstract
In response to the constantly growing demand for high quality cosmetics we observe an increasing interest in products containing natural plant extracts. This article attempts to assess the antioxidant and cytotoxic properties of extracts from alfalfa herb and seeds (Medicago sativa L.). These extracts were obtained using ultrasound-assisted extraction method. The research was carried out on two cell lines: fibroblasts and keratinocytes. The obtained results show that the examined extracts from M. sativa L. are a source of valuable biologically active agents. Both extracts were characterized by high content of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Evaluation of antioxidant properties of extracts using DPPH• radical indicated that the alfalfa extracts can efficiently scavenge free radicals. The results of the conducted experiments demonstrated that the M. sativa L. extracts do not only have an inhibitory effect on free radicals existing in the external environment of the cell, but also have the ability to reduce the intracellular reactive oxygen species level, which may contribute to the reduction of oxidative stress inside the cells. Studies performed using cell lines indicated that the tested extracts increase the proliferation and metabolism of skin cells in vitro. The high antioxidant capacity of M. sativa L. extracts may indicate its potential use as a valuable ingredient in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries.
Highlights
IntroductionIn addition to protecting the body against water loss and infection of microorganisms, it plays an important cosmetic role.[1] As the most extensive organ in the body, over time the skin shows numerous visible signs of aging
The skin is a barrier that separates the body from the external environment
The results of the conducted experiments demonstrated that the M. sativa L. extracts do have an inhibitory effect on free radicals existing in the external environment of the cell, and have the ability to reduce the intracellular reactive oxygen species level, which may contribute to the reduction of oxidative stress inside the cells
Summary
In addition to protecting the body against water loss and infection of microorganisms, it plays an important cosmetic role.[1] As the most extensive organ in the body, over time the skin shows numerous visible signs of aging. Many people, especially women, spend a lot of money on cosmetics and pharmaceutical products that help them prevent or partially reverse skin aging.[2] This aging is caused by both internal and external factors. External aging is caused by external factors such as air pollution, poor nutrition, smoking, and exposure to the sun, which leads to thick wrinkles, laxity and loss of skin elasticity, and rough textured appearance. Long-term exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the basic factor of skin aging called photoaging.[3,4]
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